2023; A Wiz Magic Year in Review
2023 was magical
Index
I. Forward
II. Reflection
III. Markets
IV. Analysis and Commentary
WIZ CHARTS CHAT
Education & Resources Page
Forward
A special present for this loyal ride or die tribe. A look back at what was 2023, and a look forward to 2024. Filled with recaps, special reflections, special looks at different pieces of the markets, including stats on Market Performance during an Election Year. I hope this paper is a special paper for you and that you go back and look at it, that you are able to reflect upon it into a quiet winter solstice, and emerge in the New Year into who you truly are meant to be.
My call for the whole tribe for 2024 is to be yourself. Your life is meant to be a positive net good on all of humanity, and by being here, you are called to be great, not just good, but great.
Stoicism to Frame Your Mind Before Reading This:
Premeditatio Malorum: A Mental Preparation for Life's Hard Times
The ancient Stoic practice of "premeditatio malorum," or the premeditation of evils, invites us to contemplate potential hardships and misfortunes. While seemingly pessimistic, it's a powerful tool for building resilience and mental fortitude. By proactively imagining and accepting the possibility of negative events, we can equip ourselves to face them with greater calm and clarity when they inevitably arise.
Life, by its very nature, is unpredictable. Unexpected setbacks, losses, and challenges are inevitable. Yet, our unprepared minds often react to these events with shock, fear, and anxiety, rendering us less capable of navigating the situation effectively.
Premeditatio malorum, in contrast, encourages us to mentally rehearse difficult situations. We visualize ourselves facing loss, illness, failure, or betrayal. This doesn't mean dwelling on negativity, but rather acknowledging its potential presence and considering how we might respond.
By engaging in this mental rehearsal, we can:
Reduce fear and anxiety: When we anticipate potential hardships, the initial shock and fear lessen when they actually occur. Our minds are already somewhat familiar with the situation, allowing us to react with greater composure.
Develop coping mechanisms: Premeditatio malorum provides a space to brainstorm possible responses to different challenges. We can consider how we might maintain our values and navigate the situation with integrity and resilience.
Strengthen our resolve: The act of contemplating difficult situations, even mentally, strengthens our inner resolve and prepares us for the emotional and psychological challenges that may lie ahead.
However, it's crucial to remember that premeditatio malorum is not about wallowing in negativity or succumbing to fear. Instead, it's a proactive approach to mental self-defense. It allows us to acknowledge life's inherent uncertainties while simultaneously cultivating the strength and wisdom to face them head-on.
As I embrace this practice, I am reminded of the words of Marcus Aurelius, who wrote, "The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way." Premeditatio malorum doesn't aim to eliminate hardship, but rather to transform us into individuals who are better equipped to navigate it. By embracing the possibility of hard times and preparing our minds accordingly, we can become more resilient, resourceful, and ultimately, more human.
The road ahead may be uncertain, but by equipping ourselves with the tools of mental preparation, we can face whatever challenges life throws our way with greater grace and strength. We can learn to dance with the storms, knowing that even in the darkest of times, the sun will eventually rise again.
I also take serious pride in this being an affordable educational site. I am adding a veteran discount on top of adding student discounts to subscriptions.
Refer a Friend and Receive Discounts off your subscription
VETERAN DISCOUNTS FOR WIZ SUBSTACK (need a vmail.vet address)
STUDENT DISCOUNTS for WIZ SUBSTACK (need an educational institution address)
If you enjoy the stack, make sure to like this post, restack, retweet, subscribe to the tribe. It goes a long way and I think 95% of those that upgrade will say they’ve seen their trading improve incredibly. But enough of the biz, let’s get down to wiz.
Reflection
May the dawn of 2024 bring you a renewed sense of wonder for the gift of being human.
May you embrace your unique quirks and passions, the fullness of your emotions, and the depth of your experiences.